The Value of Senior Care: Weighing Costs and Benefits
When considering professional senior care for a loved one, families must carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages while also taking into account the overall expenses. Understanding the costs and benefits of home care services can help you make a well-informed decision about what is the right choice for your loved one.
What Services Do Visiting Angels In-Home Caregivers Provide?
Professional caregivers offer non-medical support to older adults who wish to age in the comfort of their own homes and maintain their independence for as long as possible. Visiting Angles offers in-home support services customized to your loved one's specific needs, including:
- Assistance with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.
- Running errands and transportation to/from appointments (inquire about availability)
- Light housekeeping
- Meal planning and preparation
- Medication set-up and reminders
- Socialization and interaction to combat anxiety, isolation, and depression in seniors
For those with more advanced needs, specialized services are also available such as:
- Alzheimer's care
- Dementia care
- Parkinson’s disease care
- End-of-life care is also available.
Understanding the Cost of In-Home Care Services
The cost of home care can vary depending on factors such as your loved one's location, their specific needs, and the frequency of assistance required. Generally, home care services range from $40 to $50 per hour in most cities. It's worth noting that discounts may be available for routine visits or when exceeding a certain number of hours per week.
In some cases, qualified individuals may utilize long-term insurance to help offset the costs of in-home care.
The Benefits of In-Home Care
Choosing in-home assistance for your loved one offers several valuable benefits, including:
- Personalized, one-on-one support: Your loved one will receive focused attention from an experienced caregiver dedicated to meeting their unique needs, preferences, habits, and interests.
- Fully customizable: Flexible scheduling options allow you to choose the days, times, and duration of in-home visits, ensuring your loved one receives assistance precisely when they need it most. Additionally, you can select specific services that cater to their current requirements and adjust the plan as needed.
- Cost-effective: By developing a schedule that fits your budget and eliminating unnecessary services, you can maximize your loved one's well-being while being mindful of expenses.
- Emotional well-being: Studies have shown that nearly 90 percent of Americans over 65 prefer to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. In-home care enables your loved one to stay in a familiar environment, reducing anxiety and stress associated with moving to an assisted-living residence or nursing facility.
- Peace of mind: Whether you're at work, caring for your family, on vacation, or simply taking a break, there will be times when you can't be with your loved one. An in-home caregiver ensures that your loved one receives dedicated and compassionate attention even when you are unavailable. Additionally, respite care is an option when you need short-term or temporary assistance for your loved one.
Seek Assistance from Visiting Angels
If you are considering in-home care services, Visiting Angels' professional caregivers can provide the customized and affordable support your loved one deserves. Schedule a free home care consultation with a qualified Visiting Angels coordinator to discuss your loved one's needs and get answers to any questions you may have about home care.